North West Highlands Geopark takes on new education officer to engage with local schools as part of ambitious new project
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The North West Highlands Geopark (NWHG) has made a new staff appointment to help drive forward its ambitious new Access, Connect and Take Part (ACT) project.
Geologist Andrew Whyte last month took up the role of the geopark's new education and engagement officer.
The three-year ACT programme runs until summer 2025 with the aim of giving more people the opportunity to connect with the landscape through a range of activities from art, storytelling and citizen science.
NWHG, which receives no core funding, put together a package of funding worth more than £315,000 to underpin the project.
Funding was granted by the National Lottery Community Fund, SSE Renewables, the Highland Coastal Communities Fund, EB Scotland and Foundation Scotland through the David Doig and Essentia Foundation.
Mr Whyte, from Edinburgh, has a Master in Geology (Honours), Earth Science from the University of St Andrews and is a PhD candidate in Geology and Earth Science at the University of Cambridge.
Geopark manager Laura Hamlet said his appointment was key to the success of the ACT project.
"Andrew will work closely with schools, supporting the curriculum and embedding local examples into history, art, geography and science teaching," she said. "He will also develop an out-of-school Young Geologists Club, engaging and upskilling young people in their world-class landscape
"Outside of schools, Andrew will work with communities on citizen science projects, including community climate action planning and data collection."
Dr Hamlet added: "I am so pleased to welcome Andrew to our team. His enthusiasm for the role and passion for the geopark and the people who live in it are clear and his knowledge and background in Earth Science will be of huge benefit to the area."
Geopark chairman Dr Iain Young said: "It's fantastic to have someone so well-qualified and passionate joining the team.
"I am sure Andrew will make a huge contribution to the delivery of what is an exciting programme of events and initiatives right across the geopark."
Mr Whyte said he was "overjoyed" to be part of the geopark team.
"It's never been more important for us to be connected to our natural world and to empower people to love and protect it," he said.
"Helping the geopark with this aim, whilst also providing new opportunities for young people in rural communities, is both a privilege and a dream come true."
SSE Renewables investment manager Lindsay Dougan said Andrew was an "excellent addition to the geopark team."
